The stampede was caused by inadequate exit access, as a large crowd, primarily women and children, rushed to leave the venue.
The death of two children has been verified by the Gombe State Command as a result of a sallah stampede that occurred at the Gombe official Eid Ground.
In a statement that was released yesterday in Gombe, the spokesperson for the Command, Buhari Abdullahi, stated that the incident took place at approximately 10:45 a.m. near the departure gate of the Eid Ground, immediately following the conclusion of the Eid prayers.
“The stampede was caused by inadequate exit access, as a large crowd, primarily women and children, rushed to leave the venue. The situation, worsened by intense heat, led to the unfortunate incident.
“22 individuals were affected and were immediately taken to hospitals for medical attention. Regrettably, two of the victims, a four-year-old boy, and six months old baby girl, were pronounced dead by doctors while receiving treatment.
“The police urge Eid Ground managers to ensure that all entrance and exit gates remain open to facilitate smooth movement, especially after prayers.”
His sympathies were sent to the families of those who had lost a loved one, and he wished those who had been injured a swift recovery.
The Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed his condolences to the families of those who passed away and to those who have been impacted by the tragedy.
On Sunday, the governor published a statement that was sent by his media aide. In the statement, the governor directed a comprehensive inquiry into the conditions that led to the stampede, with the intention of preventing similar incidents in the future.
Additionally, he issued a directive that the state government should pay for all of the victims’ medical bills in order to guarantee their recovery and ensure that they are in adequate health.
He said, “The safety and well-being of our citizens remain a top priority. The state government is committed to learning from this incident and implementing corrective measures.”